Audi Q7 Review

The Audi Q7 is one of the newer large luxury SUVs to become available. It doesn't disappoint, and comes with all the quality and understated opulence buyers have come to expect from the respected German marque. The Q7's bloodlines are evident in its incredibly swank interior. Craftsmanship is first-rate throughout, and the big SUV is decked out with a wide array of sophisticated luxury and safety features.

The Q7 isn't without its flaws. The vehicle's full complement of features contributes to its ponderous curb weight, which strips some crispness from its acceleration. Fuel economy is poor. And those hoping to keep the kids occupied on road trips with showings of "The Incredibles" will be disappointed to learn that the Q7 isn't available with a factory-installed DVD entertainment system.

At the end of the day, though, these blemishes do little to compromise the attractiveness of Audi's exceptional hauler. If you're in the market for a luxury SUV, the Audi Q7 deserves a place on your list.

Current Audi Q7
The Audi Q7 is a luxury SUV that seats up to seven. Audi's crossover emphasizes performance and luxury, as its car-based unit-body construction and flurry of high-end accoutrements attest. It is available in 3.0T Premium, 3.0T Premium Plus, 3.0T S Line Prestige and TDI Premium trim levels. Standard features even on the base "Premium" trims are impressive, with highlights including leather upholstery, heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control, Audi's MMI control interface and a power liftgate. Moving up through the line adds luxuries such as a navigation system, a rearview camera, a surround-sound audio system and xenon headlights. Option highlights include an air suspension, adaptive cruise control and a panoramic sunroof.

The 3.0T Premium and Premium Plus are powered by a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 that produces 272 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The 3.0T S line Prestige gets a more powerful version of that engine, producing 333 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. An alternative choice is the 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 found in the Q7 TDI. This "clean diesel" engine produces 225 hp and a robust 406 lb-ft of torque, while returning an excellent 20 mpg combined. All engines are mated to an eight-speed transmission with manual shift control, and all Q7s are equipped with Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Within its cabin, the Audi Q7 manages to be both futuristic and warm at the same time. There's lots of burled wood on display, and come nighttime, the gauges light up with a pleasing red glow. The style is arguably class-leading, while materials quality is first-rate. The navigation, climate control and audio systems are all accessed via Audi's Multi Media Interface (MMI). Once you get up to speed on the system, it's fairly easy to use. As is the case with most SUVs of this size, third-row seating is strictly for the kids. Both the second and third rows may be folded flat to swallow an impressive 88.7 cubic feet of cargo.

The Audi Q7 shines on pavement. Its optional adjustable air suspension helps it navigate bumps and ruts with panache, and Audi's all-wheel-drive system keeps the wheels firmly glued to the road. The SUV is somewhat porcine, which of course hurts acceleration and fuel efficiency. In consumer reviews, buyers praised the ute's all-wheel drive and elegant interior, but deducted points for its less-than-pleasing fuel economy.

Used Audi Q7 Models
Audi introduced the Q7 for the 2007 model year. Initially, engine choices consisted of a 3.6-liter V6 (280 hp and 266 lb-ft) or a 4.2-liter V8 (350 hp and 325 lb-ft), both matched to a six-speed automatic transmission. Neither was an ideal choice; the V6 was a bit underpowered and the V8 was thirsty. Audi dropped these in favor of the supercharged V6 after the 2010 model year. The diesel TDI engine was not available until 2009. The only other thing to note for used Q7s is that 2010 and newer models have an updated MMI electronics interface and navigation system that is easier to use.